The source indicated that Collins, currently a TNT analyst, has emerged as the front-runner, but that management wants to be as thorough as possible in deciding on a successor to the fired Eddie Jordan. The source also mentioned that Portland Trail Blazers assistant Monty Williams remains a wild-card possibility.

Collins, who has previously coached the Bulls, Detroit Pistons and Washington Wizards, has not been active in the profession since 2003. A four-time All-Star guard, he spent his entire playing career with the Sixers. He was interested in the Sixers' coaching job last year, but was not granted an interview. He has indicated that if he returns to coaching, he would prefer it be with the 76ers.

In the course of their search, the Sixers have also met with Minnesota Timberwolves assistant Bill Laimbeer, Houston Rockets assistant Elston Turner and Phoenix Suns assistant Dan Majerle. Turner was the most recent candidate to be interviewed, having come to Philadelphia on Friday.